Does acupuncture really work?

Yes, it does! I wouldn’t practice a medicine in which I didn’t fully believe. Since I discovered acupuncture as a child, I’ve personally experienced relief from asthma, sinus congestion, frequent colds, headaches, stress, insomnia, irregular periods, and muscle aches, to name a few. You may feel relief from symptoms that have bothered you for years. If you're curious, you should try it and experience the results for yourself.

How does acupuncture work?

In a nutshell, the human body is traversed by energy pathways known as “meridians”. Thin, disposable, sterile, stainless steel needles are inserted into points along these pathways in order to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities. That being said, the true "how" of acupuncture is much too involved to be answered in an FAQ - I had to go to school for 4 years to even begin to understand it!

What can acupuncture treat?

Most people think that acupuncture is mainly for treating pain. While it's incredibly effective at pain management, it's good for so much more! I've personally treated people for fertility, menstrual irregularities, PMS, stress, anxiety, depression, cold/flu, sinus infections, eye twitching, toothaches, digestive disorders, migraines, acne, high blood pressure, grief, insomnia, pain, and so much more. Click here for more information on conditions that acupuncture can treat, as well as our specialties.

How many treatments will I need before I see results?

You should notice positive changes in 4-6 visits. In China, it is common to be seen daily for 7-10 days as a first course of treatment. That treatment model doesn't really work in the west, so I usually recommend two treatments a week for the first couple of weeks (at least three treatments in the first two weeks) to get a jumpstart on healing. For acute (new) issues, patients tend to see results very quickly. For chronic (older) issues, it may take a little longer. A general rule of thumb is the longer you've been dealing with an issue, the more treatments it will take to fix it.

An acupuncture needle is about the size of a cat's whisker

Does acupuncture hurt?

When people think of needles, they usually think of hypodermic needles, the type used to give blood. Acupuncture needles are very different: they are much smaller, solid, and as thin a human hair. Many people don’t feel anything when being needled, some do. These sensations have been described as “heavy”, “itchy”, and “zingy”, to name a few. Patients tend to feel relaxed during a treatment. In fact, many of them fall asleep while on the treatment table.

What can I expect during a treatment?

Upon arrival for your appointment I will collect your paperwork and look it over to get an idea of the conditions for which you’d like to be treated. Then I will take you back to the treatment room and do a comprehensive intake, including a detailed history of your health. I will look at your tongue and check your pulse. Once the intake is finished I will have you lie on the table to insert the needles. When the needles are inserted, I will turn off the lights and leave you alone to rest. I will check on you once during that time. Then I will come in, remove the needles, do any necessary adjunctive techniques, and discuss herbs and set up future appointments.

How long does a treatment last?

Expect to be here for 90-120 minutes for a new patient visit and about 60-75 minutes for a follow up visit. View our services page for detailed information on each service offered.

How much does it cost?

Price varies depending on the treatment received. Please visit the Services page for a breakdown of price for each treatment. Herbal medicine and any items from our Wellness Center are additional costs. Discounts are available for students, seniors, fire, police, and military.

What types of payment do you accept?

Cash and checks are my preferred forms of payment. I also accept Visa, Mastercard, and Discover, and American Express. FSA and HSA cards are also acceptable forms of payment.

Do you take insurance?

I do not take insurance. All treatments must be paid for at the time of service, but I can provide you with a detailed superbill that you can submit for reimbursement if acupuncture is covered under your plan.